... insult potential customers with what appear to be virtually useless requirements in any event.

First, the seller has virtually nothing to lose accepting bids from "0" feedback bidders. Just don't ship until the check clears.

Second, even if you have a name and a "listed" phone (what about people who don't even have such a thing, how can they ever meet this requirement?), what good will they do if the buyer of a $10 item is in some other state and won't follow through on the deal. Gonna sue him in small claims court? I don't think so.

Third, everyone has to start somewhere. I think sellers should give newcomers the benefit of the doubt (see "first" above) until they have demonstrated unreliability. At least, that's the way I'd do it.

----- jim o\-S